Seven Top Tips to Make the Most of Clearing

If you’re starting the clearing process, we have a whole page dedicated to this incredible process here. It’s a great opportunity to consider other options and sweep up a place at an amazing university like Bolton. Here are our 7 top tips to make the most of Clearing:

1. Get prepared

Before you get your results and even start the clearing process, it’s a great idea to have a list of courses you’re interested in and questions you’d like to ask. Write everything down so you ask the same thing of every university you talk to. You will want to ask about the course, finance options and accommodation (if relevant). Do a little research into each institution so you have a little background on them before your calls.

2. Keep calm

Tens of thousands of students go through clearing every year so you don’t need to be stressed. Many people change their minds and give up places, so it’s likely you’ll find something amazing. If you’re close to qualifying for a particular course, you can inquire directly with your chosen institution to see if they have any suggestions for alternate routes. If they’re as supportive as Bolton University, they’re sure to help.

3. Find some quiet

When you start making your calls, you’ll not want to be interrupted and the school will want to talk to you, not your mum, dad or mate. So, grab a cuppa, turn off any distracting noises and shut yourself away for a few hours until you phone your entire list.

4. Get prepared

Before you dial any numbers, you’ll want to have your list from before plus your personal clearing number and UCAS ID to hand. Have the course code for the programme you are interested in at each institution written down and your grades nearby for reference.

5. Make all your calls

Now, dial each institution and go through your list of questions. If you’re not sure about an answer they give you, ask your question again another way to ensure you’re 100% clear. Take notes of who you spoke to and check that the information they have about you is correct like phone number and email address. (Ask them to read it back in the phonetic alphabet if you’re unsure.)

6. Check your emails

If you qualify, most universities will email you with an offer that expires after a set period of time. Now, getting this email does not mean you’ve accepted a place. You can still phone all your other institutions. You might also need to do an interview before a place is granted, so be prepared for that possibility. Just talk openly and honestly about your aspirations in a calm and upbeat tone. 

7. Don’t take the first offer

Finally, remember that you don’t have to take the first offer you get. Wait to receive all your options and don’t forget to go to an Open Day to see what it’s really like before accepting a place. Visiting the campus and meeting your professors can give you a better feel for what studying there will really be like.

Finally, remember that you don’t have to take the first offer you get. Wait to receive all your options and don’t forget to attend an Open Day to see what it’s really like before accepting a place. Visiting the campus and meeting your professors can give you a better feel for what studying there will really be like.

We want your Clearing 2023 experience to be seamless, so we’re here to support you with anything from financial advice around fees and funding to mental health services. Email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or call +44 1204 903142 to speak to a member of the team about anything you might need. Remember at the University of Bolton we are proud to offer #UniAsItShouldBe; where our students and their needs are put first.